14 Common Misconceptions About Medication For Autism And ADHD
14 Common Misconceptions About Medication For Autism And ADHD
Blog Article
Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many people, both adults and children with autism take psychotropic medication. Some of these medications can aid in reducing the irritability and severe disruptive behavior that can occur with ADHD.
The use of medications for ADHD can dramatically improve autism's primary symptoms and reduce inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They also can reduce undesirable behaviors such as aggression, self-injury and licking or trichotillomania as well as obsessive compulsive signs.
Stimulants
Autism can be a difficult and challenging condition for parents and children. However, medication is not always the best solution. While medications can be helpful in managing certain disorders that are typically associated with autism and improve overall function, they won't cure or make your child "normal."
Stimulants are one of the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. Children with autism are frequently diagnosed with ADHD. Research has proven that stimulants can help improve the core symptoms of ADHD in these children, such as inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Methylphenidate, or Ritalin is the most common stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases the amount of dopamine in the brain. This is a neurotransmitter that aids in controlling mood, behavior and reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the effects of psychotropic drugs on their children. Critics describe them as chemical straitjackets, which help schools and parents to manage difficult behavior. Some people also argue that the drugs don't address the root causes that cause autistic children much distress, such as social interactions anxiety, as well as limited, repetitive behaviors.
A study published in Pediatrics found that stimulants, like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate, can be effective in reducing the core ADHD symptoms that can cause problems with family, school and work. These medications also are believed to reduce the irritability of these children.
The same study revealed that atypical antipsychotics, such as aripiprazole and risperidone (Abilify), may help with irritability among children with autism and ADHD. This is a preliminary conclusion. Further study is needed to confirm the findings and determine if these medications could help with other forms of irritability that can accompany autism, such as self-injury or aggression.
A second concern is that the current studies don't analyze long-term use or other factors that are important, such as the potential for website abuse. Additionally, some studies aren't that large or use different methods as compared to others, making it difficult to compare outcomes. But if your child has ADHD and autism, it's worth having a discussion with your physician to determine what medication might be appropriate for him or her.
Medication can be a useful instrument for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for families affected by ADHD and autism, however it should not be used to replace therapy or other therapies. Your doctor will work closely with you to determine the most effective medication to use and the dosage most efficient for your child. Medications can help your child concentrate and be more productive at school and at home and take part in the therapies that are meant to treat their autism. Your child will be able to make the biggest advancements possible.